About Company
Ottolenghi is a collection of delis and restaurants founded by Yotam Ottolenghi, renowned for its innovative, vibrant, and delicious food that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients. With a commitment to quality, creativity, and exceptional guest experiences, we’ve built a reputation for culinary excellence and warm, inviting atmospheres. Our Islington deli is a bustling hub where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy our distinctive pastries, salads, and meals, all crafted with passion and precision. Joining Ottolenghi means becoming part of a team that values authenticity, collaboration, and a shared love for great food and service.
Job Description
Are you a natural people-person with a passion for creating memorable experiences? Ottolenghi Islington is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Hospitality Host to join our front-of-house team, specifically for weekend shifts. This pivotal role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys being the welcoming face of a beloved culinary institution. As our Hospitality Host, you will be the first and last impression for our guests, ensuring every visit is seamless, enjoyable, and reflective of the Ottolenghi standard. You will manage reservations, warmly greet guests, guide them to their tables, and proactively assist with any queries, ensuring a smooth flow of service. Beyond the day-to-day, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining our vibrant atmosphere, contributing to a positive and efficient working environment alongside our talented team. If you possess excellent communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and a genuine desire to provide outstanding customer service, particularly during our busiest weekend periods, we would love to hear from you. This is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of high-quality food and exceptional hospitality, right in the heart of Islington.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly welcome all guests upon arrival, setting a positive tone for their dining experience.
- Efficiently manage the reservation system, seating arrangements, and guest flow during busy periods.
- Politely answer phone calls, manage enquiries, and take reservations with accuracy and charm.
- Maintain a tidy and organised reception area and front-of-house, ensuring a welcoming environment.
- Anticipate guest needs and proactively assist with special requests or challenging situations.
- Collaborate closely with the waiting staff and kitchen team to ensure seamless service delivery.
- Provide guests with accurate information regarding our menu, daily specials, and general offerings.
- Handle guest feedback and complaints professionally, escalating issues to management when necessary.
- Adhere to all health, safety, and hygiene standards within the workplace.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within hospitality.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with a friendly and professional demeanor.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask effectively in a busy environment.
- A positive, proactive attitude and a genuine passion for guest service.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining a calm and composed manner.
- Flexibility and consistent availability to work weekends (Saturdays and/or Sundays) is essential.
- Excellent command of the English language.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience with reservation software (e.g., OpenTable, SevenRooms).
- Basic knowledge of food and beverage offerings, with an interest in culinary trends.
- A keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of presentation.
- Ability to speak additional languages is a plus in our diverse London setting.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for growth.
- Delicious staff meals during shifts and generous staff discount across all Ottolenghi locations.
- Comprehensive training and development programs.
- A vibrant and supportive team environment.
- Opportunity to work with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a renowned brand.
- Career progression pathways within a growing company.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about hospitality and meet the requirements for this role, we encourage you to apply directly through our careers portal. Please click on the link below to submit your application and browse other exciting opportunities with Ottolenghi. We look forward to reviewing your application!